"jughead" wrote in
oups.com:

Thanks for the tip on the Carlisle paddle.
Courtney I have a Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 which is around 24.5
inches wide.
I use the kayak for exercise and planning on some ocean trips and
camping trips.
I think I am steering to a more low angle paddle.
I'm also looking at the Aqua-Bound EagleRay or StingRay which is a
narrower blade but longer.
The guy at REI said I should get a 240.
The eagle and sting ray Aqua
Bound have long blades so maybe a 230? I could always return it if it
doesn't work out. That is what is good about REI.

Did you get any indication regarding whether the guy at REI has actually
ever paddled a kayak? While outdoor retail chain stores might have good
return policies when buying paddling gear you're not necessarily going to be
talking to someone that has spent much time paddling, but more likely
someone that has gone through their corporate "how to sell paddling
equipment" training. At a dedicated paddling shop you'll more likely deal
with someone that is first, a paddler, and second and owner or employee at
the shop. You'll likely find the same return policies, be able to demo
different paddles *before* buying them (some may charge a rental fee that
will be deducted from the purchase price), and may even have *used* paddles
for sale.


Makes sense to get a
paddle with pure fiber glass blades. I hear the Cameno is good but
pretty expensive.

It's not really that expensive when compared to other paddles with
fiberglass shafts and blades. If you just look at the quality of
construction it should be fairly obvious why Werner is a popular choice.

If I get a paddle with a more low angle style (Longer but narrower
blade) will I still be able to get a good exceleration out of it to go
against currents and stuff?

Sure. You likely wouldn't be able to tell much of a difference. As you
gain more experience and a more efficient stroke the differences will become
moe apparent.